Jewel School, Part 4
For all types of jewelry it is important to be smart about storage, Today’s Transitions talked to Ashley Davis of Davis Jewelers. She suggests clasping and laying necklaces flat or hanging in a jewelry box. If storing in a bag, leave a bit of the chain out to prevent knotting. You can also purchase jewelry boxes and bags with an anti-tarnish component built in.
“Caring and cleaning really depends on the piece,” Ashley says. “For example, pearls came from a living, breathing organism, so treat them as if they are living. The best way to clean them is to just wipe them down with a wet cloth. As far as cleaners go, the jewelry cleaner that any jewelry store sells or provides free of charge is going to be best. An easy at-home solution is to use a bit of Dawn soap and water because it easily removes grease and debris from your fine diamond pieces.”
Fine jewelry pieces and watches should be cleaned and inspected by a certified jeweler every six months. Davis Jewelers offers cleaning and inspection services free of charge whether you are a client or not.
As for cleaning and caring for costume jewelry, the process is very different.
“Never put costume jewelry in jewelry cleaner as it darkens the foil backing on stones, thereby losing sparkle,” Judy says. “It could also loosen glued stones. A little glass cleaner sprayed on a paper towel or cloth could be used to clean items. A jeweler’s polishing cloth for silver is good for shining up costume, as well as sterling jewelry.”
P.S. Read more about repurposing jewelry pieces and what jewelry you should keep.
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